"Togetic is unable to battle! Crystal Onix wins!"
When the referee announced the result, Falkner's apprentices still could not recover from the defeat. They stared at the unconscious Togetic, unable to accept the outcome.
After all, this was no Hoothoot or Pidgeotto, one of Violet Gym's regular defenders. This was Falkner's ace!
It was Falkner's greatest strength as both a Pokémon Trainer and a Gym Leader, his last shred of pride. Who would have thought it would lose just like that?
On the battlefield, Falkner recalled Togetic, sighed, and slowly walked toward Xia You.
Once he drew close, he looked up at Crystal Onix, who was looking down at him, and shook his head helplessly.
"Well, there's nothing to say. My two strongest Pokémon could barely fight back against you. You truly deserve the title of champion. I accept my defeat wholeheartedly." As he spoke, Falkner took a badge from inside his clothes and handed it to Xia You. "Now, this Zephyr Badge is yours."
"Thank you."
Xia You accepted the badge and examined it closely.
The Zephyr Badge had a simple design, looking like a slightly stylized pair of wings. Its material, however, resembled steel, with a distinctly metallic feel. It gleamed brightly in the sunlight and felt heavy in his hand. It was the heaviest badge Xia You had received so far.
He placed it in the brand-new Badge Case Nurse Joy had given him when he registered for the Silver Conference, then nodded to Falkner.
"Sorry for injuring your Pokémon, but there's something I'd like to ask you."
Falkner glanced at him. "A question? You don't need to be so polite. Ask whatever you like."
"Why are you so determined to become a Bird Pokémon Master?"
Hearing that question, Falkner thought for a moment. Rather than answer